-The Esquire 100 - Ahmed Abou Hashima

A self-made success story, Hashima’s work-ethic and commitment to changing the world for the better has made him one of the region’s most prominent entrepreneurs.

From revolutionising the steel industry — thanks to state-of-the-art and eco-friendly technologies, which are set to make his company the largest green steel producer in the world — to his philanthropic work across Egypt in youth development. Esquire sat down with the charismatic Egyptian to see what makes him tick…

How do you describe yourself?A workaholic…and obsessed with sports!

Who do you look up to?In life, definitely my father. He’s a policeman, and although his work is totally unrelated to mine, he’s the one who taught me to be a fighter and to be the persistent person that I am today.

What is the most important attribute for successful people?They focus on their own work and never compare what they do to others. Doing that allows them to save time and energy, and channel efforts in the right direction.

What’s your greatest achievement in life?That I was able to start my steel empire when I was only 33-years-old. I now employ a workforce of 6,000 people, and I have goals of expanding to 100,000.

Wow, that is ambitious. What virtue do you admire most in other people?I value loyalty and dedication. Loyalty in work, ethics, and values. Dedication in making the best out of people’s lives and potential.

How do you make your decisions?I’m a risk-taker. But they are calculated risks. I take care to have all the facts available to me before leaping in.

What’s is one tip you wish everyone else knew?That failure is not the end of the world. Persistence is key. Persistence and remaining calm under the toughest of circumstances.

Is there a quote you live your life by?“If you were born poor, it’s not your mistake. But if you die poor that’s your mistake.”

Speaking of advice, what would you say to your 18-year-old self?Do everything you did all over again. It worked out just fine.